In the latest indignity to befall the Hilltop Steak House, the Route 1 landmark that closed over the weekend, thieves lassoed two fiberglass calves that were part of a herd that stood watch in front, authorities said.

The Hilltop, a staple of family dining for half a century, has been hit with a spate of thefts over the past few weeks.

“The black baby calves were taken, with a value of $1,000 each,” said Ronald Giorgetti, the assistant police chief in Saugus. “That took place sometime Friday.” In addition to the cows, 200 plates valued at $20 each and 300 menus valued at $5 each have been stolen.

“I don’t think people realize this is an actual crime,” he said. “It is nostalgic, but it hurts the business; just the plates alone are worth $4,000. It all starts to add up.”

Giorgetti said police are investigating the thefts and are working with the Hilltop and eBay, where many of the stolen goods have been resold, in an effort to track down the items and the culprits.